But splitting firewood and stacking it can be nearly as dangerous.
Last year, more than 1200 people in Otago and Southland made claims with ACC for firewood-related injuries, costing the taxpayer $3,170,000.
The southern regions were among the highest claimants in the country last year, when ACC received 8374 claims for firewood-related injuries nationwide, costing $19.9 million.
Injuries included cuts from chopping firewood, burns sustained while adding wood to fires and sprains from lifting and gathering firewood.
So, as the winter months draw nearer and southerners are replenishing their supply of firewood for the chilly season, ACC is urging New Zealanders not to rush the job.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker said most injuries were predictable and therefore preventable.
"If you remember to take a moment to assess the risks, you can avoid injury.
"Our top tip for handling firewood safely is to slow down. Many firewood-related injuries happen simply because people are rushing.
"Instead of overloading yourself and trying to carry too many pieces of wood at once, use a wheelbarrow, take multiple trips or get someone to help you."
He said about 1.3 million of the 2 million injury claims that ACC accepted every year occurred in homes and communities.
"That is 65% of all claims.
"Trips and hazards are the main culprits, leading to falls being the main cause of injury.
"Around 40% of all home-related injuries are from falls or loss of balance.
"The second-biggest danger in the home is moving stuff around — lifting, carrying and straining account for around 18% of all home-related injuries."
Mr Whitaker said there were flow-on effects for others as well.
"If you hurt your back carrying wood, you might not be able to be as involved with your kids or grandchildren and your workmates may need to take on some of your tasks."
Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommended homeowners have their chimney cleaned before the first fire of the season; always use a spark guard on an open fire; keep furniture or drying washing at least 1m from the fireplace and dispose of ashes carefully, because they can stay hot for up to five days.
It is also a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher handy.
